Choice of area rugs can influence the tone of living room seating

The size of area rugs and other floor coverings can change the atmosphere of a living room seating arrangement if they don't fit the space they are in.

An area rug that's too large for a small seating arrangement can make the space look cramped rather than intimate, according to RealSimple.com. In a more expansive seating area, a single large rug can serve as an anchor for the sofa and draw together the chairs or loveseats that surround it.

If taking up wall-to-wall carpeting is out of the question, there's no reason area rugs can't be layered over it to give focus to some areas of a room.

"Layering rugs, like layering clothes, adds texture, color, and dimension. The effect is calm and warm," Los Angeles interior designer Suzanne Rheinstein told the website. A tightly woven, low-pile carpet in a solid tone works best in such arrangements. Any style area rug – from cotton rag rugs to a zebra print cowhide – will complement solid-colored carpeting, depending on the room's décor.

Rugs, like upholstery, can fade from too much direct sunlight. To prevent sun damage, solar screen shades act as a buffer against ultraviolet rays and prevent fading of furnishings.